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Zootopia 2 Inspires Venomous Snake Pet Trend in China
16 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Zootopia 2's blue snake character Gary De'Snake boosted interest in pet vipers.
- Indonesian pit vipers saw increased searches and prices on Chinese e-commerce.
- Experts warn against impulse buying of venomous snakes due to safety risks.
The animated hit "Zootopia 2" has inadvertently sparked a craze for venomous blue snakes in China, with one young enthusiast purchasing an Indonesian pit viper inspired by the film's character, Gary De'Snake. This surge in interest has led to increased searches and inflated prices for the snake on major e-commerce platforms.
Reptile ownership, particularly among Gen Z, is on the rise in China, with snakes forming a significant portion of exotic pets. Despite the film's positive portrayal, authorities and media outlets are highlighting the inherent dangers of keeping venomous snakes as pets.
Concerns about public safety have prompted e-commerce sites to remove listings for venomous snakes. Experts and state media caution that these are not harmless "trendy toys" and emphasize the need for extensive experience and safety measures for potential owners.
